An application is a type of computer program designed as a tool to allow a user to perform one or more types of work. This mainly differentiates it from other types of programs such as operating systems (which make the computer work), utilities (which perform maintenance or general use tasks), and programming languages (with which computer programs are created) .

It is usually a computer solution for the automation of certain complicated tasks such as accounting, document drafting, or warehouse management. Some examples of application programs are word processors, spreadsheets, and databases.

In the mobile or tablet environment, it is usually called an app.